Thu, 16 Apr 2026 | BUSINESS SALE
A law firm based in East Sussex has expanded with the acquisition of a practice in Bexhill-on-Sea. Stephen Rimmer LLP’s acquisition of Donaldson Dunstall takes the firm’s headcount to around 130.
The deal, which comes in Eastbourne-headquartered Stephen Rimmer LLP’s 45th anniversary year, brings significant expertise in conveyancing, wills and probate, and private client work into the business.
Donaldson Dunstall has been serving clients from its Bexhill base since 1998. Post-acquisition, all of the company’s partners and staff are set to remain in their roles under the ownership of Stephen Rimmer.
The acquisition takes Stephen Rimmer’s team to 15 partners, 40 fee-earners and close to 130 staff overall across its four south coast offices. In the 2026-27 year, Stephen Rimmer LLP expects to generate turnover of more than £10 million.
Stephen Rimmer LLP has two sites in Eastbourne, its main headquarters and a dispute resolution office, as well as a branch in Hastings. The addition of Donaldson Dunstall adds a presence in Bexhill-on-Sea.
Stephen Rimmer partner Grant Sanders commented: “Donaldson Dunstall has built an excellent reputation over many years, and we are delighted that their partners and staff will be continuing with us. For clients, it’s very much business as usual.”
Patrick Donaldson, partner at Donaldson Dunstall, added: “Joining Stephen Rimmer allows us to preserve the personal service our clients value, while giving them access to a broader range of specialist expertise. We believe this is a positive and secure step forward for the future.”
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